Evaluation of periodontal treatments using controlled-release tetracycline fibers: clinical response

Comparative evaluation of local drug delivery using tetracycline fibers and antimicrobial photodynamic therapy in Stage II Grade B periodontitis: A clinico-microbiological study

Background

Periodontal therapy aims to eliminate the periopathogens involved in disease progression to restore the lost form and function of the tooth-supporting structures. To overcome the drawbacks of conventional treatment, several adjunctive treatment modalities have been successfully used to treat moderate-to-severe periodontal diseases. The present study aims to comparatively evaluate the efficacy of locally delivered tetracycline fibers and antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (PDT) as an adjunct to nonsurgical periodontal treatment, focusing on the possibility of improving the clinical parameters and reducing the microbial load postoperatively.

Materials and Methods

Twenty-two patients with Stage II Grade B periodontitis were divided into two groups: Group A: scaling and root planing (SRP) + locally delivered tetracycline fibers and Group B: SRP + antimicrobial PDT using indocyanine green as photosensitizer. The following clinical parameters were assessed at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months: Gingival index, modified sulcular bleeding index, clinical attachment level, and probing pocket depth. Subgingival plaque samples were obtained for microbial analysis of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, and Prevotella intermedia at the following periods.

Results

There was significant improvement in clinical and microbiological parameters in both the groups at 3 months and 6 months postoperatively. Microbial recolonization was noted in both the groups, albeit without reaching statistical significance with respect to P. gingivalis and A. actinomycetemcomitans at 6 months postoperatively.

Conclusion

From the results obtained, it can be concluded that both local drug delivery and antimicrobial PDT can be used as an effective adjunctive treatment to SRP. However, supportive periodontal care is required to avoid microbial recolonization.

Comparing the clinical effects of local administration of minocycline ointment and doxycycline solution in the treatment of acute periodontal abscesses: a retrospective clinical study

PURPOSE

The objective of this retrospective clinical study was to provide evidence supporting the adjunctive local application of doxycycline solution or minocycline ointment, in conjunction with drainage, for the treatment of acute periodontal abscesses.

METHODS

The study included 63 patients who had received treatment for acute periodontal abscesses through drainage supplemented with 1 of 3 types of adjunctive medications during their initial visit (visit 1; baseline): 1) saline irrigation (the control group), 2) 2% minocycline ointment (the TM group), or 3) 300 mg/mL doxycycline irrigation (the TD group). The same adjunctive medication was administered at visit 2, which took place 1 week after visit 1. Probing depth (PD), bleeding on probing (BOP), plaque index, gingival recession, clinical attachment level, and tooth mobility were clinically evaluated at visits 1, 2, and a third visit (visit 3; 4 weeks after visit 1). Statistical significance was considered to be indicated by P values <0.05.

RESULTS

By visit 3, all clinical indices and tooth mobility had significantly decreased in each group. At this visit, PD and BOP on the abscess side were significantly lower in the TM and TD groups compared to the control group. The TD group showed a significantly greater improvement than the TM group, with mean PD reductions of 1.09 mm in the control group, 1.88 mm in the TM group, and 2.88 mm in the TD group. Similarly, mean BOP reductions were 45% in the control group, 73.02% in the TM group, and 95.45% in the TD group.

CONCLUSIONS

Local and adjunctive administration of doxycycline and minocycline in combination with drainage exhibited clinical advantages over drainage alone in improving PD and BOP. Notably, a doxycycline solution of 300 mg/mL was more effective than a 2% minocycline ointment.

Supra and subgingival application of antiseptics or antibiotics during periodontal therapy

Periodontal diseases (gingivitis and periodontitis) are characterized by inflammatory processes which arise as a result of disruption of the balance in the oral ecosystem. According to the current S3 level clinical practice guidelines, therapy of patients with periodontitis involves a stepwise approach that includes the control of the patient's risk factors and the debridement of supra and subgingival biofilm. This debridement can be performed with or without the use of some adjuvant therapies, including physical or chemical agents, host modulating agents, subgingivally locally delivered antimicrobials, or systemic antimicrobials. Therefore, the main aim of this article is to review in a narrative manner the existing literature regarding the adjuvant application of local agents, either subgingivally delivered antibiotics and antiseptics or supragingivally applied rinses and dentifrices, during the different steps in periodontal therapy performed in Europe.

Comparative Evaluation of Tetracycline Hydrochloride Fiber and Simvastatin Gel as an Adjunct to Scaling and Root Planing in Periodontitis Patients

Inflammation of oral soft tissues, caused by periodontal disease, results in the loss of attachment to supporting therapy and is a severe threat to dental health. Although there are a number of therapeutic options available, mechanical debridement continues to be the gold standard. Scaling and root planing is the gold standard therapy for periodontitis, but this research aims to examine the efficacy of tetracycline fibers and simvastatin gel as local drug delivery methods. We evaluated 60 sites, splitting them into three groups: 20 sites received just scaling and root planing; 20 sites received scaling and root planing plus simvastatin gel; and 20 sites received scaling and root planing plus tetracycline fibers. Clinical indicators such as the gingival index, the modified sulcular bleeding index, and the probing depth were measured at the start of the study, after one week, after one month, after three months, and after six months. After six months, the simvastatin group reduced the gingival index and modified sulcular bleeding index more than the tetracycline group, whereas the tetracycline group reduced probing depth more than the simvastatin group.

Controlled release devices as adjuvants in nonsurgical periodontal therapy: A systematic review

Controlled release devices (CRD) have been widely studied regarding their application in periodontal therapy. Therefore, the present study aims to evaluate the use and effectiveness of controlled-release devices in nonsurgical periodontal therapy through a systematic review. The research was carried out in six different databases, namely: Online Medical Literature Search and Analysis System (Medline-PubMed), Web of Science, Science Direct, Scopus, Scielo, and Google Scholar. The descriptors "Delayed-Action Preparation," "Therapeutics," and "Periodontitis," were used with their EntryTerms and connected through the Boolean operators AND and OR. A total of 2847 studies were found, and after applying the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses checklist flowchart, 34 were selected using the eligibility criteria. After that, the qualitative results were tabulated and the risk of bias in each of them was evaluated. It can be observed that the use of CRD presents itself as a successful alternative for adjuvant treatment to periodontal therapy, a fact due to its availability and local concentration in the crevicular fluid. However, further clinical research is still needed to develop devices that are effective, with an easy and quick application, as well as available at a good cost-benefit ratio.

In vitro assessment of the antimicrobial activity of tetracycline hydrochloride diluted in three different vehicles against Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, and Fusobacterium nucleatum

Background:

The development and progression of periodontal diseases is a result of the dynamic interaction of microorganisms within their habitat, and changes in this habitat generate a dysbiotic state. Fusobacterium nucleatum and Prevotella intermedia are bridging microorganisms between the pioneer communities and other microorganisms responsible for periodontitis such as Porphyromonas gingivalis. Tetracycline hydrochloride (TTC-HCl) is commonly used as a coadjutant in periodontal treatment in the form of an antiseptic. However, there are no clear dilution or concentration protocols.

Objective:

This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial activity of TTC-HCl diluted in sterile water, saline solution, and 2% lidocaine with epinephrine 1:80,000 at concentration of 125, 250, and 500 mg, at three time points– 30, 60, and 120 s – on P. intermedia, F. nucleatum, and P. gingivalis using the Kelsey–Maurer technique.

Materials and Methods:

The antimicrobial activity of TTC-HCl was evaluated at the proposed concentrations and times, dissolved in the different vehicles at pH 1.9 and 7.0, on F. nucleatum, P. intermedia, and P. gingivalis. The Kelsey–Maurer test was used to verify the presence or absence of colony-forming units. Each test was performed in triplicates with its respective viability controls.

Results:

Inhibition of F. nucleatum, P. intermedia, and P. gingivalis was achieved with TTC-HCl at all concentrations, dissolved in distilled water, saline solution, and 2% lidocaine with epinephrine 1:80,000 for all times.

Conclusions:

The results show that TTC-HCl is a good antimicrobial alternative against F. nucleatum, P. intermedia, and P. gingivalis regardless of the vehicle in which it was dissolved, concentration, pH, or time used in this investigation.

Core-Shell poly-(D,l-Lactide-co-Glycolide)-chitosan Nanospheres with simvastatin-doxycycline for periodontal and osseous repair

This study aimed to evaluated the potential of core-shell poly(D,l-lactide-co-glycolide)-chitosan (PLGA-chitosan) nanospheres encapsulating simvastatin (SIM) and doxycycline (DOX) for promoting periodontal and large-sized osseous defects. SIM, and/or DOX were encapsulated in PLGA-chitosan nanospheres using double emulsion technique and were delivered to sites of experimental periodontitis and large-sized mandibular osseous defects of rats for 1-4 weeks. The resultant nanospheres were ~ 200 nm diameter with distinct core-shell structure and released SIM and DOX sustainably for 28 days. DOX and SIM-DOX nanospheres significantly inhibited P. gingivalis and S. sanguinis. In experimental periodontitis sites, SIM-DOX nanospheres significantly down-regulated IL-1b and MMP-8 and significantly reduced bone loss. In mandibular osseous defects, VEGF was up-regulated, and osteogenesis was significantly augmented with SIM nanospheres treatment. In conclusion, core-shell PLGA-chitosan nanospheres released SIM and DOX sustainably. SIM-DOX and SIM nanospheres could be considered to promote the repair of infected periodontal sites and non-infected osseous defects respectively.

Comparative evaluation of subgingivally delivered 1.2% rosuvastatin and 1% metformin gel in treatment of intrabony defects in chronic periodontitis: A randomized controlled clinical trial

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to explore and compare the clinical efficacy of locally delivered 1.2% Rosuvastatin (RSV) and 1% Metformin (MF) gel as an adjunct to scaling and root planning (SRP) in the treatment of intrabony defects in chronic periodontitis patients.

METHODS

A total of 90 volunteers were randomly assigned to three treatment groups; 1) SRP plus placebo gel; 2) SRP plus 1.2% RSV gel; 3) SRP plus 1% MF gel. Clinical parameters like modified sulcus bleeding index (mSBI), plaque index (PI), pocket probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment level (CAL) were recorded at baseline, 6 and 12 months and the radiologic assessment of bone defect fill was performed at 6 and 12 months.

RESULTS

mSBI, BP, PD, and CAL were improved in all the groups, however mean reductions in PD, CAL gain, and percentage of bone fill was found to be higher in RSV and MF groups than placebo group at all visits.

CONCLUSION

Adjunctive use of locally delivered 1.2% RSV and 1% MF gel stimulates a significant PD reduction, CAL gains and improved bone fill when compared with placebo gel. Results were significantly better with the use of 1.2% RSV gel than 1% MF gel.

Clinical efficacy of subgingivally delivered simvastatin gel in chronic periodontitis patients

BACKGROUND

Simvastatin (SMV), a new locally delivered drug of class statins, is a specific competitive inhibitor of 3-hydroxy-2-methyl-glutaryl coenzyme A reductase. Statins, besides having lipid-lowering abilities, also have pleiotropic effects like host modulation and bone regeneration. The present study was designed to investigate the effectiveness of SMV, 1.2 mg, in an indigenously prepared biodegradable controlled-release gel as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 60 sites, with pocket depth ≥5 mm, two from each of 30 patients after SRP, were categorized into two treatment groups, for subgingival placement of placebo (Gp 1) or SMV (Gp 2). Clinical parameters were recorded at baseline and at 1, 3 and 6 months comprising plaque index, gingival index, probing pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment level (CAL). The osseous changes were evaluated radiographically by measuring vertical gain, INFRA 1 and angle of the defect, INFRA 2 from baseline to 6 months.

RESULTS

All subjects tolerated the drug, without any post-application complication. The treatment improved the periodontal condition in both the groups but significant reductions in PPD (p= 0.04), and INFRA 1 (p= 0.000), along with gain in CAL (p= 0.02) and INFRA 2 (p= 0.000) were observed in Gp 2. In one site, an unexpected 5 mm decrease in INFRA 1 was found.

CONCLUSION

Local drug delivery of SMV enhanced the beneficial effect of SRP, in pocket reduction, gain in CAL and bone fill.

Silicon Nitride Bioceramics Induce Chemically Driven Lysis in Porphyromonas gingivalis

Organisms of Gram-negative phylum bacteroidetes, Porphyromonas gingivalis, underwent lysis on polished surfaces of silicon nitride (Si3N4) bioceramics. The antibacterial activity of Si3N4 was mainly the result of chemically driven principles. The lytic activity, although not osmotic in nature, was related to the peculiar pH-dependent surface chemistry of Si3N4. A buffering effect via the formation of ammonium ions (NH4(+)) (and their modifications) was experimentally observed by pH microscopy. Lysis was confirmed by conventional fluorescence spectroscopy, and the bacteria's metabolism was traced with the aid of in situ Raman microprobe spectroscopy. This latter technique revealed the formation of peroxynitrite within the bacterium itself. Degradation of the bacteria's nucleic acid, drastic reduction in phenilalanine, and reduction of lipid concentration were observed due to short-term exposure (6 days) to Si3N4. Altering the surface chemistry of Si3N4 by either chemical etching or thermal oxidation influenced peroxynitrite formation and affected bacteria metabolism in different ways. Exploiting the peculiar surface chemistry of Si3N4 bioceramics could be helpful in counteracting Porphyromonas gingivalis in an alkaline pH environment.

Comparative evaluation of efficacy of three treatment modalities - tetracycline fibers, scaling and root planing, and combination therapy: A clinical study

Background

Tetracycline is one of the primary antibiotics prescribed for antimicrobial therapy in periodontics. It has a broad spectrum of activity being effective against most bacteria as well as spirochetes. Due to limitations of systemic drug therapy, recent formulations of the drug for local administration in the subgingival area have been introduced, including collagen fibers impregnated with tetracycline.

Aims and Objective

To compare the effectiveness of tetracycline fibers alone or in combination with scaling and root planing (SRP) on clinical parameters in chronic periodontitis patients.

Materials and Methods

A total of twenty patients comprising of both sexes in the age group of 35-60 years with chronic periodontitis were selected. Split-mouth design was used, and three teeth from each patient with periodontal pocket measuring > 5 mm were selected which were treated with different treatment modality. They were randomly divided into site A (SRP), site B (tetracycline fibers only), and site C (combination therapy). Clinical parameters of plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), pocket probing depth, and clinical attachment level (CAL) were recorded at 0, 30, and 45 days. The data obtained was compiled and put to statistical analysis.

Results

All the three groups showed improvement in PI, GI, probing pocket depth, and CAL. Results of the study showed greater improvements in clinical parameters in Group C compared to Group A and Group B.

Conclusion

The results indicate that the adjunctive use of tetracycline fibers with SRP is a clinically effective and simple nonsurgical treatment method to improve periodontal health.

Management of Chronic Periodontitis Using Subgingival Irrigation of Ozonized Water: A Clinical and Microbiological Study

INTRODUCTION

Adjunctive use of professional subgingival irrigation with scaling and root planing (SRP) has been found to be beneficial in eradicating the residual microorganisms in the pocket.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of ozonized water subgingival irrigation on microbiologic parameters and clinical parameters namely Gingival index, probing pocket depth, and clinical attachment level.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty chronic periodontitis patients with probing pocket depth ≥6mm on at least one tooth on contra lateral sides of opposite arches were included in the study. The test sites were subjected to ozonized water subgingival irrigation with subgingival irrigation device fitted with a modified subgingival tip. Control sites were subjected to scaling and root planing only. The following clinical parameters were recorded initially and after 4 weeks at the test sites and control sites. Plaque Index, Gingival Index, probing pocket depth, clinical attachment level. Microbiologic sampling was done for the test at the baseline, after scaling, immediately after ozonized water subgingival irrigation and after 4 weeks. In control sites microbiologic sampling was done at the baseline, after scaling and after 4 weeks. The following observations were made after 4 weeks. The results were statistically analysed using independent t-test and paired t-test.

RESULT

Test sites showed a greater reduction in pocket depth and gain in clinical attachment compared to control sites. The total anaerobic counts were significantly reduced by ozonized water subgingival irrigation along with SRP compared to SRP alone.

CONCLUSION

Ozonized water subgingival irrigation can improve the clinical and microbiological parameters in patients with chronic periodontitis when used as an adjunct to scaling and root planing.

Surgical Treatment of Peri-Implantitis: A 17-Year Follow-Up Clinical Case Report

The purpose of the present case report was to describe the surgical treatment of a peri-implantitis lesion associated with a regenerative approach. A 48-year-old patient came to authors' attention 36 months after the placement of a dental implant (ITI-Bonefit Straumann, Waldenburg, Switzerland) in position 46. A swelling of the peri-implant soft tissues was observed, associated with bleeding on probing and probing depth > 10 mm. A significant peri-implant bone loss was clearly visible on the periapical radiograph. A nonsurgical periodontal supportive therapy was firstly conducted to reduce the inflammation, followed by the surgical treatment of the defect. After mechanical and chemical decontamination with tetracycline solution, a regenerative approach consisting in the application of deproteinized bovine bone mineral (Bio-Oss, Geistlich Pharma AG, Wolhusen, Switzerland) and a collagen membrane (Bio-Gide, Geistlich Pharma AG, Wolhusen, Switzerland) was performed. An antibiotic therapy was associated with the treatment. The 17-year follow-up showed a physiological probing depth with no clinical signs of peri-implant inflammation and bleeding on probing. No further radiographic bone loss was observed. The treatment described in the present case report seemed to show improved clinical results up to a relevant follow-up period.

Clinical effect of locally delivered gel containing green tea extract as an adjunct to non-surgical periodontal treatment

Green tea catechins had an in vitro antibacterial effect against periodontopathic bacteria and were able to inhibit destruction of the periodontal tissue. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of locally delivered gel containing green tea extract as an adjunct to non-surgical periodontal treatment. Forty-eight subjects who had teeth with probing pocket depth of 5-10 mm were randomly allocated into the test or control group. Probing pocket depth, clinical attachment level, gingival index (GI), bleeding on probing (BOP) and full mouth plaque score were measured at baseline. Subjects received oral hygiene instruction, single episode of scaling and root planing and subgingival application of the green tea gel (test group) or the placebo gel (control group). The gel was repeatedly applied at 1 and 2 weeks later. The parameters were recorded again at the 1st, 3rd and 6th month after the last gel application. The results showed that all parameters were improved in both groups compared to baseline. The test group exhibited significantly higher reduction in BOP at the 3rd month (p = 0.003) and significantly lower GI at the 1st month (p < 0.001) and 3rd month (p < 0.001) when compared with the control group. Thus, green tea gel could provide a superior benefit in reducing bleeding on probing and gingival inflammation when used as an adjunct to non-surgical periodontal treatment. (

TRIAL REGISTRATION

MU-IRB 2008/153.0511, ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00918060).

Effect of tetracycline HCl in the treatment of chronic periodontitis - A clinical study

OBJECTIVE

This study was aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the adjunctive use of tetracycline fibers (Periodontal Plus AB(®)) as a local drug delivery with scaling and root planing, as compared with the results of one episode of scaling and root planing for the treatment of chronic periodontitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effectiveness of Periodontal Plus AB (tetracycline fiber) was assessed in 100 patients suffering from chronic periodontitis using split-mouth technique.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

The relative efficacy of the two treatment modalities was evaluated using the paired Student's t-test, and the comparative evaluation between the two groups was done using the independent Student's t-test.

RESULTS

Significant improvement was found in all the variables, including reduction in pocket depth and gain in clinical attachment level, in both test and control groups in 3 months, which was statistically significant. Mean reduction in pocket depth and gain in clinical attachment level were more in test than in control group.

CONCLUSION

Tetracycline fiber therapy along with scaling and root planing improves the healing outcome, namely, reduction in pocket depth and gain in clinical attachment level, when compared to scaling and root planing alone.

Clinical utility of locally-delivered collagen-based biodegradable tetracycline fibers in periodontal therapy: an in vivo study

AIM

The purpose of the present investigation was to evaluate and compare the efficacy of resorbable collagen-based tetracycline fibers (Periodontal Plus AB fibers) given as an adjunct to scaling and root planing, with the clinical effects of scaling and root planning delivered as a monotherapy, in the treatment of chronic periodontitis.

METHODS

A split-mouth design was used to conduct this study. Forty patients with periodontal pockets ranging from ≥ 5 mm to ≤ 7 mm, with minimum of two sites in two non-adjacent quadrants, were selected for the study. The treatment sites in each patient were randomly divided into the control and experimental groups. All of the selected sites were treated with scaling and root planning, and then collagen-based resorbable tetracycline fibers were placed adjunctively in the experimental sites at the same visit. Baseline and follow-up measurements in both treatment groups included plaque index, sulcus bleeding index, probing pocket depth, and relative attachment level.

RESULTS

Although significant clinical benefits were obtained in both treatment groups, the adjunctive antimicrobial use of tetracycline fibers demonstrated better results compared to the control group over the 3-month observational period.

CONCLUSIONS

The delivery of antimicrobial agent tetracycline in a collagen matrix was found to improve the benefits of scaling and root planing by a larger magnitude in patients with moderate-to-deep pockets.

Periodontal debridement: still the treatment of choice

Periodontal debridement (PD) remains a gold standard for the treatment of inflammatory periodontitis.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

The evidence base regarding the causal relationship between oral biofilm and the host inflammatory response to the etiology of periodontal disease has substantially increased over the years. What has not changed significantly during that time is the conservative manner in which the disease can be treated with periodontal debridement (PD). Since dental hygienists, in particular, specialize in providing these procedures it is important to evaluate the evidence that supports periodontal debridement as a primary and fundamental treatment modality.

METHOD

An extensive narrative literature review that included systematic reviews, examined traditional PD, the use of adjuncts to enhance PD and newer PD procedures to determine what are the best practices for achieving optimal clinical outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Compared to surgical therapy, PD results in maintenance of attachment levels over time, but is not as effective in the initial reduction of probing depths in deep pockets. Sustained release local drug delivery agents have some modest adjunctive effects when used with PD, as do systemic antibiotics in aggressive periodontitis cases. Reported analyses of the long term effects of chemotherapeutic agents usually do not extend beyond a few months to a year. While laser therapy is still under investigation it remains as a potential PD therapy. New instruments being refined to better visualize the root surface either non-surgically or with mini papilla reflection flaps, hold promise for the future when they become more affordable and accessible. Despite the development of new technology, it still appears that periodontal debridement (PD) remains the gold standard for the treatment of inflammatory periodontitis.

Diagnosis and anti-infective therapy of periodontitis

Periodontal diseases (gingivitis and periodontitis) are chronic bacterial infections with a remarkably high prevalence and morbidity. Periodontitis, in contrast to gingivitis, is not reversible, is associated with certain bacterial species and affects all of the soft tissue and bone that support teeth. Among the periodontal pathogens, species, such as Aggregatibacter (Actinobacillus) actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Tannerella forsythensis, and several forms of uncultivable spirochetes play the major role in the pathogenesis. In severe chronic, recurrent and especially aggressive forms of periodontitis, diagnosis of the species involved and, whenever possible, an optimized evidence-based antimicrobial treatment is indicated. In order to monitor alarming bacterial changes in the periodontal pocket, several techniques, namely microscopy, culture, immunoassays, enzyme tests and DNA-based techniques, have been established and the methods are described in the first part of this review. In the second part, the selection and use of locally delivered (topical) and systemic antibiotics used adjunctively in periodontal therapy are discussed.

A chlorhexidine-loaded biodegradable cellulosic device for periodontal pockets treatment

Absorbent points widely used in endodontic therapy were transformed into bioresorbable chlorhexidine delivery systems for the treatment of the periodontal pocket by preventing its recolonization by the subgingival microflora. These paper points (PPs) were first oxidized to promote their resorption, then grafted with β-cyclodextrin (CD) or maltodextrin (MD) in order to achieve sustained delivery of chlorhexidine. We investigated the oxidation step parameters through the time of reaction and the nitric and phosphoric acid ratios in the oxidizing mixture, and then the dextrin grafting step parameters through the time and temperature of reaction. A first selection of the appropriate functionalization parameters was undertaken in relation to the degradation profile kinetics of the oxidized (PPO) and oxidized-grafted samples (PPO-CD and PPO-MD). Samples were then loaded with chlorhexidine digluconate (digCHX), a widely used antiseptic agent in periodontal therapy. The release kinetics of digCHX from PPO-CD and PPO-MD samples were compared to PP, PPO and to PerioChip(®) (a commercial digCHX containing gelatine chip) in phosphate buffered saline (pH 7.4) by ultraviolet spectrophotometry. The cytocompatibility of the oxidized-grafted PP was demonstrated by cell proliferation assays. Finally, the disc diffusion test from digCHX loaded PPO-MD samples immersed in human plasma was developed on pre-inoculated agar plates with four common periodontal pathogenic strains: Fusobacterium nucleatum, Prevotella melaninogenica, Aggregatibacter actinomycetem comitans and Porphyromonas gingivalis. To conclude, the optimized oxidized-dextrin-grafted PPs responded to our initial specifications in terms of resorption and digCHX release rates and therefore could be adopted as a reliable complementary periodontal therapy.

A systematic review on the effects of local antimicrobials as adjuncts to subgingival debridement, compared with subgingival debridement alone, in the treatment of chronic periodontitis

AIMS

To update the existing scientific evidence on the efficacy of local antimicrobials as adjuncts to subgingival debridement in the treatment of chronic periodontitis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Fifty-six papers were selected, reporting data from 52 different investigations. All the studies reported changes in probing pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment level (CAL) and most in plaque index (PlI) and/or bleeding on probing (BOP). Meta-analyses were performed with the data retrieved from the studies fulfilling the inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

The overall effect of the subgingival application of antimicrobials was statistically significant (p = 0.000) for both changes in PPD and CAL with a weighted mean difference (WMD) of -0.407 and -0.310 mm respectively. No significant differences occurred for changes in BOP and PlI. Subgingival application of tetracycline fibres, sustained released doxycycline and minocycline demonstrated a significant benefit in PPD reduction (WMD between 0.5 and 0.7 mm). The rest of the tested outcomes demonstrated a high heterogeneity. The local application of chlorhexidine and metronidazole showed a minimal effect when compared with placebo (WMD between 0.1 and 0.4 mm).

CONCLUSIONS

The scientific evidence supports the adjunctive use of local antimicrobials to debridement in deep or recurrent periodontal sites, mostly when using vehicles with proven sustained release of the antimicrobial.

Effects of a single episode of subgingival irrigation with tetracycline HCl or chlorhexidine: A clinical and microbiological study

Background:

The present study was designed to evaluate clinical and antimicrobial effects of a single episode of subgingival tetracycline or chlorhexidine (CHX) irrigation in the absence of scaling and root planing.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty patients diagnosed with chronic periodontitis were recruited for this study, each providing four non-adjacent untreated periodontal pockets with a probing depth equal to or exceeding 6 mm. The four deep periodontal pockets in each patient were assigned to be irrigated with 150 ml each of CHX digluconate 0.2% (group A), tetracycline HCl at concentrations of 10 and 50 mg/ml (groups B and C, respectively), or sterile saline (group D) in a single episode. Recordings of plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing pocket depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), and subgingival bacterial counts from paper point samples were made pre-irrigation (day 0), and at days 7, 28, 56, and 84, post-irrigation.

Results:

The mean PI and GI scores for all the four groups were reduced post-irrigation, the reduction being significantly higher in group C compared to the other groups. The reduction in the PD and CAL was more significant in group C from day 0 to day 7, whereas the other groups showed minimal changes during this period. The change in the bacterial count was altered towards one of the periodontal health, it being more significant and consistent in the group C.

Conclusion:

The results of this study suggest that subgingival irrigation with high concentrations of tetracycline may play a beneficial role in the management of chronic periodontitis patients.

To assess the effectiveness of a chlorhexidine chip in the treatment of chronic periodontitis: A clinical and radiographic study

CONTEXT

Controlled local delivery of disinfecting agents has been demonstrated to be efficient in improving the outcome of periodontal therapy.

AIMS

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of a controlled-release biodegradable chlorhexidine chip (Periocol CG) when used as an adjunct to scaling and root planing in the treatment of periodontitis.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN

The study was carried out as randomized controlled two-group parallel clinical trial.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty patients in the age group of 30-65 years suffering from mild to moderate chronic periodontitis, having pocket depth ranging between 5 and 8 mm, were selected for the study. At the screening visit, complete history taking, periodontal examination and full-mouth supragingival scaling was carried out for each patient. At the baseline visit (on the 7(th) day), all clinical parameters and radiographic parameters were recorded at selected sites and patients were randomly assigned to either the control group (group A) or the treatment group (group B). All patients in both the groups received complete subgingival scaling and root planing. Then, in group B, chlorhexidine chip (Periocol CG) was inserted at the selected site. Patients were recalled at 1 month, 2 months and 3 months from the baseline for recording clinical observations, and radiographic parameters were recorded at the end of the study.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Mean, standard deviation, Chi-square test, "t" test for equality of means and paired samples correlations were used.

RESULTS

There was a statistically significant clinical attachment gain, reduction in bleeding index scores, probing pocket depth reduction and bone gain in both the groups, but group B showed better results than group A, and these differences were statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study show that chlorhexidine chip (PerioCol-CG) is an effective adjunctive therapy to scaling and root planing in the treatment of chronic periodontitis.

Single use of tetracycline with and without diclofenac sodium as local drug delivery in pocket therapy: a clinico-microbiological study

AIM

  Local drug delivery is a non-surgical method in the treatment of periodontitis. Different chemotherapeutic agents are used for local drug delivery; one such agent is tetracycline, a broad-spectrum antibiotic. Recent studies have also shown that the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines and acts as host modulator. Thus, an attempt was made to compare and evaluate the efficacy of tetracycline alone and in combination with diclofenac sodium as a local drug delivery.

METHODS

  A total of 36 sites with chronic periodontitis were divided into three groups with 12 sites each (i.e. group A, antibiotics alone; group B, antibiotics in combination with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; and group C, control group). For all the groups, the following parameters (plaque index, papillary bleeding index, probing pocket depth, and microbial analysis) were assessed and statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

  The antibiotic and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug combination group showed a statistically-significant improvement in clinical parameters and a shift in microbial flora when compared to the group with antibiotics alone. However, the control group failed to show any statistically-significant improvement.

CONCLUSION

  Antibiotics in combination with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are more efficient than using antibiotics alone as local drug delivery for the treatment of periodontal pockets.

Evaluation of commercially available biodegradable tetracycline fiber therapy in chronic periodontitis

BACKGROUND

Chronic periodontitis is an inflammatory disorder caused by dental plaque having mixed microbial flora. The different treatment modalities available to treat this disease are aimed at removal of micro-organisms from both hard and soft tissues. Systemic as well as local anti-microbial agents are helpful adjuncts in reducing microbes especially in inaccessible areas along with mechanical debridement therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was conducted in a split mouth design. Thirty-five patients having at least two non-adjacent sites in different quadrants with periodontal pockets ≥5 mm and with bleeding on probing at initial visit were selected. The selected sites were treated with both scaling and root planing plus tetracycline fibers or with scaling and root planing alone. Baseline and follow-up measurements included plaque index, gingival index, probing pocket depth, and clinical attachment level.

RESULT

Both treatment modalities were affective in improving clinical parameters over three months' observation period. The combined antimicrobial and mechanical debridement therapy has shown better results as compared with scaling and root planing alone.

CONCLUSION

Application of tetracycline in modified collagen matrix following scaling and root planing might be beneficial in treatment of chronic periodontitis and improving periodontal parameters for 3-month duration.

Clinical effect of subgingivally delivered simvastatin in the treatment of patients with chronic periodontitis: a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease that results in bone resorption creating bony defects, which may cause tooth loss. Various drugs have been studied using local delivery to improve the periodontal health and to achieve periodontal regeneration. Simvastatin (SMV) is a specific competitive inhibitor of 3-hydroxy-2-methyl-glutaryl coenzyme A reductase. The present study was designed to investigate the effectiveness of SMV, 1.2 mg, in an indigenously prepared biodegradable controlled-release gel as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP) in the treatment of chronic periodontitis.

METHODS

Sixty patients were categorized into two treatment groups: SRP plus placebo (group 1) and SRP plus SMV, 1.2 mg (group 2). Clinical parameters were recorded at baseline before SRP and at 1, 2, 4, and 6 months; they included modified sulcus bleeding index (mSBI), probing depth (PD), and clinical attachment level (CAL). At baseline and after 6 months, radiologic assessment of intrabony defect (IBD) fill was done using computer-aided software. The mean concentration of SMV in gingival crevicular fluid was estimated by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography.

RESULTS

All subjects tolerated the drug, without any postapplication inflammation. Both therapies resulted in significant improvements. The decrease in mSBI score at 6 months was greater in group 2 (2.3267 +/- 0.8017) compared to group 1 (0.5033 +/- 0.6815). The mean decrease in PD from baseline to 6 months was 1.20 +/- 1.24 mm and 4.26 +/- 1.59 mm in groups 1 and 2, respectively. Mean CAL gain from baseline to 6 months was 1.63 +/- 1.99 mm and 4.36 +/- 1.92 mm in groups 1 and 2, respectively. In group 2, there was greater decrease in mean IBD (1.41 +/- 0.74 mm or 32.54%) compared to group 1 (0.09 +/- 0.58 mm or 2.16%).

CONCLUSION

There was a greater decrease in gingival index and PD and more CAL gain with significant IBD fill at sites treated with SRP plus locally delivered SMV in patients with chronic periodontitis.

Effect of chlorhexidine digluconate on different cell types: a molecular and ultrastructural investigation

Although several studies have shown that chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX) has bactericidal activity against periodontal pathogens and exerts toxic effects on periodontal tissues, few have been directed to evaluate the mechanisms underlying its adverse effects on these tissues. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the in vitro cytotoxicity of CHX on cells that could represent common targets for its action in the surgical procedures for the treatment of periodontitis and peri-implantitis and to elucidate its mechanisms of action. Osteoblastic, endothelial and fibroblastic cell lines were exposed to various concentrations of CHX for different times and assayed for cell viability and cell death. Also analysis of mitochondrial membrane potential, intracellular Ca2+ mobilization and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation were done in parallel, to correlate CHX-induced cell damage with alterations in key parameters of cell homeostasis. CHX affected cell viability in a dose and time-dependent manners, particularly in osteoblasts. Its toxic effect consisted in the induction of apoptotic and autophagic/necrotic cell deaths and involved disturbance of mitochondrial function, intracellular Ca2+ increase and oxidative stress. These data suggest that CHX is highly cytotoxic in vitro and invite to a more cautioned use of the antiseptic in the oral surgical procedures.

Development and evaluation of novel biodegradable microspheres based on poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) and poly(ε-caprolactone) for controlled delivery of doxycycline in the treatment of human periodontal pocket: In vitro and in vivo studies

This study reports on the development of novel biodegradable microspheres prepared by water-in-oil-water (W/O/W) double emulsion technique using the blends of poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) and poly(epsilon-caprolactone) (PCL) in different ratios for the controlled delivery of doxycycline (DXY). Doxycycline encapsulation of up to 24% was achieved within the polymeric microspheres. Blend placebo microspheres, drug-loaded microspheres and pristine DXY were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), which indicated no interaction between drug and polymers. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) on drug-loaded microspheres confirmed the polymorphism of DXY and indicated a molecular level dispersion of DXY in the microspheres. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed the spherical nature and smooth surfaces of the microspheres produced. Mean particle size of the microspheres as measured by dynamic laser light scattering method ranged between 90 and 200 mum. In vitro release studies performed in 7.4 pH media indicated the release of DXY from 7 to 11 days, depending upon the blend ratio of the matrix. Up to 11 days, DXY concentrations in the gingival crevicular fluid were higher than the minimum inhibitory concentration of DXY against most of the periodontal pathogens. One of the developed formulations was subjected to in vivo efficacy studies in thirty sites of human periodontal pockets. Significant results were obtained with respect to both microbiological and clinical parameters up to 3 months even as compared to commercial DXY gel. Statistical analyses of the release data and in vivo results were performed using the analysis of variance (ANOVA) method.

Citrus oil and MgCl2 as antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agents

BACKGROUND

The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of Dead Sea magnesium chloride (MgCl(2)), citrus oil, and their combination were investigated. Citrus oil is composed of monoterpenes, in particular D-limonene, which is known to inhibit growth of bacteria, fungi, and certain parasites.

METHODS

Inhibition of Porphyromonas gingivalis in vitro was used to evaluate the antibacterial effect of a mixture of Dead Sea magnesium chloride and citrus oil and of each of the components. A subcutaneous chamber model in mice was used to assess the anti-inflammatory effect of the mixture and the individual components. Leukocyte migration, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) secretion, and interleukin (IL)-10 secretion were determined. Hydrocortisone was used as a positive control.

RESULTS

Citrus oil had an antibacterial effect with a minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 1 mg/ml, whereas MgCl(2) at concentrations up to 10 mg/ml did not exhibit any antibacterial activity. However, a mixture of 10 mg/ml MgCl(2) and 0.25 mg/ml citrus oil dramatically increased inhibition of bacterial growth. The combination of MgCl(2) and the citrus oil resulted in lower levels of TNF-alpha and leukocyte migration while maintaining the levels of IL-10 compared to the control.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that a mixture of citrus oil and MgCl(2) could be used as a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent.

Local Drug Delivery in the Treatment of Periodontal Diseases: Assessing the Clinical Significance of the Results

BACKGROUND

Local drug delivery can be used in the management of periodontal patients. However, statistically significant responses to therapy recorded in clinical trials may not be clinically significant.

METHODS

Controlled clinical trials were selected that assessed the capability of local drug delivery to improve periodontal health.

RESULTS

Several local drug delivery systems employed as monotherapies improved periodontal health and provided results that were not statistically significantly different than attained with scaling and root planing (SRP) alone. In contrast, many local drug delivery devices when used as adjuncts to SRP provided a statistically significant enhancement of parameters commonly used to monitor periodontal status. However, mean improvements with respect to probing depth reduction or gain of clinical attachment were often limited to tenths of millimeters. Several devices also achieved specific criteria that can be used to identify clinically significant findings (e.g., number of sites with probing depth reduction >or=2 mm). However, there are conflicting data with respect to the ability of local drug delivery to enhance results of SRP at deep probing sites, and there is limited information relative to its capability to inhibit disease progression or enhance osseous repair in infrabony defects.

CONCLUSION

The decision to use local drug delivery during active treatment or maintenance should be based upon clinical findings, responses to therapy recorded in the literature, desired clinical outcomes, and the patient's dental and medical history.

Impact of local adjuncts to scaling and root planing in periodontal disease therapy: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Chronic periodontitis affects many adults in the United States, some severely enough to threaten tooth loss. Of particular clinical importance is whether scaling and root planing (SRP) accompanied by a local adjunctive therapeutic agent improves outcomes over time compared to SRP alone. The adjunctive therapeutic agents investigated include: tetracycline, minocycline, metronidazole, a group of other antibiotics, chlorhexidine, and a group of antimicrobials. Primary outcomes considered are reductions in probing depth (PD) and gains in clinical attachment level (CAL).

METHODS

RTI-UNC Evidence-Based Practice Center staff searched MEDLINE (1966 through December 2002) and EMBASE (through February 2002) to identify clinical trials published in English that 1) involved adults with chronic periodontitis but no serious comorbidities; 2) tested one or more chemical antimicrobial agents as an adjunct to SRP alone or with a placebo; 3) had a concurrent control group that received the same SRP as the treatment group; 4) reported outcomes for specified, fixed time periods; and 5) if multiple antimicrobials were tested, reported outcomes for each agent separately. We performed qualitative analyses and meta-analyses of PD and CAL effect sizes when the necessary data were available from at least three studies at 6-month follow-up.

RESULTS

Among the locally administered adjunctive antimicrobials, the most positive results occurred for tetracycline, minocycline, metronidazole, and chlorhexidine. Adjunctive local therapy generally reduced PD levels. Differences between treatment and SRP-only groups in the baseline-to-follow-up period typically favored treatment groups but usually only modestly (e.g., from about 0.1 mm to nearly 0.5 mm) even when the differences were statistically significant. Effects for CAL gains were smaller and statistical significance less common. The marginal improvements in PD and CAL were a fraction of the improvement from SRP alone.

CONCLUSIONS

Whether such improvements, even if statistically significant, are clinically meaningful remains a question. A substantial agenda of future research to address this and other issues (e.g., costs, patient-oriented outcomes) is suggested.

Efficacy of subgingivally applied minocycline in the treatment of chronic periodontitis

BACKGROUND

The use of adjunctive minocycline with mechanical debridement in treating periodontitis has been widely studied using different methods. However, the results from these studies are equivocal.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to clarify the efficacy of the adjunctive use of subgingival minocycline application plus scaling/root planing as compared with the results of one episode of scaling/root planing in the treatment of chronic periodontitis.

METHODS

Fifteen patients were enrolled in this split-mouth clinical trial. Probing depth, clinical attachment loss, gingival index, and bleeding on probing were evaluated at the baseline before scaling/root planing and 6, 10, 14, and 18 weeks later according to a single-blind protocol. The amount of interleukin-1beta (interleukin-1beta pg/site) at each lesion was also simultaneously measured in gingival crevicular fluid in a parallel comparison design. After full-mouth baseline measurements and scaling/root planing, 78 lesions with a residual mean probing depth of 5 mm at anterior teeth were selected and equally distributed in either right or left sites based on a split-mouth symmetrical design and randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups (with or without minocycline administration, n = 39 for each group).

RESULTS

Probing depth significantly decreased from the baseline (week 0) to week 6 after scaling/root planing (p < 0.05) in both groups, but there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (p > 0.05). However, at weeks 10, 14, and 18, the experimental group showed significantly greater improvement in pocket reduction than the control group (p < 0.05). Similarly, both groups also showed significant decreases in gingival index scores from weeks 0-6 (p < 0.05), but gingival index reductions at weeks 10, 14, and 18 were statistically significant in favor of the experimental group (p < 0.05). The experimental group had more attachment gain than the control group at weeks 14 and 18 (p < 0.05). Values of interleukin-1beta (pg/site) at the experimental sites were significantly reduced at weeks 10, 14, and 18, as compared to values at control sites (p < 0.01). Finally, the incidence of bleeding on probing showed no differences between the two groups for any time interval (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In this 18-week clinical trial, the results suggested that scaling/root planing with adjunctive subgingival administration of minocycline ointment has a significantly better and prolonged effect compared to scaling/root planing alone on the reduction of probing depth, clinical attachment loss, gingival index, and interleukin-1beta content, but not on bleeding on probing.

A novel polymeric chlorhexidine delivery device for the treatment of periodontal disease

An implantable, anti-microbial delivery device for the treatment of periodontal disease has been developed. In this polymer-based delivery system, the encapsulation efficiency, release characteristics, and bioactivity of anti-microbial agent were controlled by the complexation of the drug with cyclodextrins of differing lipophilicity. Microparticles of poly(dl-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) containing chlorhexidine (Chx) free base, chlorhexidine digluconate (Chx-Dg) and their association or inclusion complex with methylated-beta-cyclodextrin (MBCD) and hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin (HPBCD) were prepared by single emulsion, solvent evaporation technique. It was observed that encapsulation efficiency and release of the chlorhexidine derivatives from the microparticles was a function of the lipophilicity of the cyclodextrin. Complexation of the poorly water soluble Chx with the more hydrophilic HPBCD resulted in 62% higher encapsulation efficiency and longer duration of sustained release over a 2-week period than complexation with the more lipophilic MBCD. In contrast, the complexation of the more water-soluble derivative of chlorhexidine, Chx-Dg, with the more lipophilic MBCD improved encapsulation efficiency by 12% and prolonged its release in comparison to both the free Chx-Dg and its complex with HPBCD. Furthermore, it was observed that the initial burst effect could be diminished by complexation with CD. Preliminary studies have shown that the chlorhexidine released from PLGA chips is biologically active against bacterial population that is relevant in periodontitis (P. gingivalis and B. forsythus) and a healthy inhibition zone is maintained in agar plate assay over a period of at least a 1-week. The PLGA/CD delivery system described in this paper may prove useful for the localized delivery of chlorhexidine salts and other anti-microbial agents in the treatment of periodontal disease where prolonged-controlled delivery is desired.

Local anti-infective therapy: pharmacological agents. A systematic review

BACKGROUND

It is well recognized that periodontal diseases are bacterial in nature. An essential component of therapy is to eliminate or control these pathogens. This has been traditionally accomplished through mechanical means (scaling and root planing [SRP]), which is time-consuming, difficult, and sometimes ineffective. Over the past 20 years, locally delivered, anti-infective pharmacological agents, most recently employing sustained-release vehicles, have been introduced to achieve this goal.

RATIONALE

This systematic review evaluates literature-based evidence in an effort to determine the efficacy of currently available anti-infective agents, with and without concurrent SRP, in controlling chronic periodontitis.

FOCUSED QUESTION

In patients with chronic periodontitis, what is the effect of local controlled-release anti-infective drug therapy with or without SRP compared to SRP alone on changes in clinical, patient-centered, and adverse outcomes?

SEARCH PROTOCOL

MEDLINE, the Cochrane Central Trials Register, and Web of Science were searched. Hand searches were performed of the Journal of Clinical Periodontology, Journal of Periodontology, and Journal of Periodontal Research. Searches were performed for articles published through April 2002. In addition, investigators contacted editors of the above-mentioned journals and companies sponsoring research on these agents for related unpublished data and studies in progress.

SELECTION CRITERIA

INCLUSION CRITERIA

Studies included randomized controlled clinical trials (RCT), and case-controlled and cohort studies at least 3 months long. Therapeutic interventions had to include 1) SRP alone; 2) local anti-infective drug therapy and SRP; or 3) local anti-infective drug therapy alone. Included studies had to report patient-based mean values and measures of variation for probing depth (PD) and/or clinical attachment levels (CAL) for both test and control groups.

EXCLUSION CRITERIA

Studies were excluded if they: 1) included data from a previously published article; 2) included daily rinsing with chlorhexidine (CHX); or 3) had unclear descriptions of randomization procedures, examiner masking, or concomitant therapies.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

For the meta-analysis, PD and CAL were expressed as summary mean effects with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the effect, and analyzed using a standardized difference between SRP alone and experimental agent groups. The results were assessed with both fixed-effects and random-effects models. Studies were ranked according to the York system.

MAIN RESULTS

1. Thirty-two studies were included (28 RCT, 2 cohort, and 2 case-control), incorporating a total patient population of 3,705 subjects. 2. Essentially all studies reported substantial reductions in gingival inflammation and bleeding indices, which were similar in both control and experimental groups. 3. A meta-analysis completed on 19 studies that included SRP and local sustained-release agents compared with SRP alone indicated significant adjunctive PD reduction or CAL gain for minocycline (MINO) gel, microencapsulated MINO, CHX chip and doxycycline (DOXY) gel during SRP compared to SRP alone. 4. Use of antimicrobial irrigants or anti-infective sustained-release systems as an adjunct to SRP does not result in significant patient-centered adverse events.

REVIEWERS' CONCLUSIONS

1. In some populations, anti-infective agents in a sustained-release vehicle alone can reduce PD and bleeding on probing (BOP) equivalent to that achieved by SRP alone. 2. No evidence was found for an adjunctive effect on reduction of PD and BOP of therapist-delivered CHX irrigation during SRP compared to SRP alone. 3. Additional RCTs are needed which evaluate the effectiveness of these therapies in all forms of periodontitis. 4. The study protocol for future RCTs should include appropriate statistical analyses and complete data sets to facilitate future evidence-based reviews. 5. Alternative surrogate parameters to PD and CAL need to be identified and validated such as microbial, inflammatory, or tissue-destructive markers that could be used in conjunction with clinical parameters to help determine the patient's response to emerging technologies that target the infectious and/or inflammatory aspects of periodontitis. 6. Future Phase IV clinical trials should be designed that evaluate local anti-infective therapies in conjunction with SRP in a manner consistent with current standards of care and evaluate cost-effectiveness. 7. The use of local anti-infective agents in at-risk patient populations and for the treatment of at-risk disease sites needs to be validated in randomized controlled clinical trials. 8. Several local anti-infective agents combined with SRP appear to provide additional benefits in PD reduction and CAL gain compared to SRP alone. The decision to use local anti-infective adjunctive therapy remains a matter of individual clinical judgment, the phase of treatment, and the patient's status and preferences.

Locally delivered antimicrobials for the treatment of chronic periodontitis

The basic treatment of chronic periodontitis is a mechanical debridement of periodontal pockets by scaling and root planing (S/RP) in combination with efficient plaque control. Locally delivered antiseptics (LDA) have been proposed to practitioners and, while subgingival irrigation of antiseptics is still used in clinical practice, the introduction in our therapy of a slow release and sub-gingival delivery of tetracycline has changed the rationale from a mechanical treatment towards a combined therapy for full mouth/sites disinfection. Various antibiotics, antiseptics and resorbable carriers are now proposed with similar targets to arrest disease progression. In chronic periodontitis, LDA cannot be used routinely in combination with S/RP, because of the limited clinical benefit, even if an increased percentage of deep sites may show an improvement. Prospective multicenter studies considering risk factors for disease progression have to be designed to identify patients who may benefit the most from LDA. For non-responding sites or recurrent pockets, the controversies are limited, because a combined S/RP and LDA may avoid the need for surgery. However, the patient cost/benefit ratio needs to be estimated as well as adverse effects in particular antibiotics.

Meta-analysis of local tetracycline in treating chronic periodontitis

BACKGROUND

Meta-analysis was used to assess the clinical efficacy of local delivery of tetracycline alone or as an adjunct to conventional mechanical therapy in patients with chronic periodontitis.

METHODS

Studies were identified in MEDLINE and others sources. Meta-analyses were performed on the basis of probing depth (PD) at baseline, type of antimicrobial used, and experimental and control regimens (i.e., tetracycline plus scaling and root planing [SRP] versus SRP, tetracycline versus SRP, and tetracycline versus placebo, or no treatment). The effect of local tetracycline was evaluated for follow-up times of 4, 8, 12, 16, 24, and 36 weeks. Sensitivity analysis was performed according to antimicrobial delivery mode (irrigation, fibers, strips). A random effects model was used.

RESULTS

The literature search identified 29 studies that met our inclusion criteria and were entered Into the meta-analysis. A significant mean reduction in PD for the combined tetracycline and SRP was observed regardless of initial probing depth and independently to the duration of follow-up. Tetracycline alone did not perform better than SRP, whereas they performed significantly better than placebo. Differences in improvement of attachment level (AL) were substantially similar to those encountered for PD.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results documented that local. delivery of tetracycline improves the clinical outcomes of traditional treatment and should be considered particularly as an adjunct to SRP. Considerations regarding the adverse effects of widespread use of tetracycline should be taken into account when choosing a therapeutic strategy of chronic periodontitis.

Meta-analysis of the effect of scaling and root planing, surgical treatment and antibiotic therapies on periodontal probing depth and attachment loss

OBJECTIVE

This paper reports a meta-analysis of studies that have investigated the effect of scaling and root planing on periodontal probing depth and attachment loss.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The criteria used for inclusion of studies were as follows: root planing and scaling alone was one of the primary treatment arms; patients or quadrants of each patient were randomly assigned to study groups; 80% of patients enrolled were included in first year follow-up examinations; periodontal probing depth and attachment loss were reported in mm; the sample size of each study and substudy was reported. Sample size was used to weight the relative contribution of each study since standard errors were not reported by many studies and sample size is highly correlated with standard error and therefore statistically able to explain a substantial portion of the standard error on studies that use similar measures.

RESULTS

The meta-analysis results show that periodontal probing depth and gain of attachment level do not improve significantly following root planing and scaling for patients with shallow initial periodontal probing depths. However, there was about a 1-mm reduction for medium initial periodontal probing depths and a 2-mm reduction for deep initial periodontal probing depths. Similarly, there was about a 0.50-mm gain in attachment for medium initial periodontal probing depth measurements and slightly more than a l-mm gain in attachment for deep initial periodontal probing depth measurements. Surgical therapy for patients with deep initial probing depths showed better results than scaling and root planing in reducing probing depths. When patients were followed up over 3 years or more, these differences were reduced to less than 0.4 mm. Antibiotic therapy showed similar results to scaling and root planing. However, a consistent improvement in periodontal probing depth and gain of attachment is demonstrated when local antibiotic therapy is combined with root planing and scaling.

Clinical significance of non-surgical periodontal therapy: an evidence-based perspective of scaling and root planing

Analysis of Egyptian hieroglyphics and medical papyri indicate that non-surgical periodontal treatment was common 3000-4000 years ago. Even today, scaling and root planing (SRP) remains an essential part of successful periodontal therapy. The collective evidence from numerous clinical trials reveals a consistency of clinical response in the treatment of chronic periodontitis by SRP using manual, sonic, or ultrasonic instrumentation. Thus, SRP remains the 'gold standard' to which more recently developed therapeutic modalities must be compared. Inherent to the clinical evaluation of SRP are such concerns as manual versus sonic and ultrasonic instrumentation, control of sub-gingival bacterial populations, removal of calculus, root smoothness and changes in various clinical parameters, e.g. probing depth, attachment levels, bleeding on probing and gingival inflammation. Lastly, an abbreviated discussion is presented on a relatively new paradigm of complete mouth 'disinfection' in a compressed time-frame that includes SRP as a significant component of the treatment regimen.

Bioerodible injectable poly(ortho ester) for tetracycline controlled delivery to periodontal pockets: preliminary trial in humans

The semisolid consistency of poly(ortho esters) (POEs) containing tetracycline free base allows direct injection in the periodontal pocket and shows sustained and almost constant in vitro release in phosphate buffer, pH 7.4 at 37 degrees C, for up to 14 days. Total polymer degradation concomitant with drug release was obtained. Formulations containing 10% or 20% (wt/wt) tetracycline were evaluated in a panel of 12 patients suffering from severe and recurrent periodontitis. In the first trial including 6 patients, single-rooted teeth and molar teeth with furcations were treated immediately after scaling and root planing. Patients tolerated both formulations well, experienced no pain during application, and showed no signs of irritation or discomfort during the observation period. However, retention of the formulation was minimal in this first study. An improved clinical protocol followed in the second study (stopping bleeding after scaling and root planning) prolonged the retention of the formulations in the inflamed periodontal pockets. For up to 11 days, tetracycline concentrations in the gingival crevicular fluid were higher than the minimum inhibitory concentration of tetracycline against most periodontal pathogens.

Periodontal therapy using local delivery of antimicrobial agents

Antimicrobial agents, systemic and/or local, are thought by some to be effective agents for treating periodontal infections. Here the authors determine the costs and benefits of local delivery agents for treating periodontal disease. Applying this cost-benefit analysis to patient care, however, will depend upon a clinician's expertise and a patient's value system.

Effect of a controlled-release chlorhexidine chip on clinical and microbiological parameters of periodontal syndrome

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a controlled-released chlorhexidine chip (CHX) as adjunctive therapy to scaling and root planing (SRP) in the treatment of chronic periodontitis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty patients with at least four sites with probing depth >or= 5 mm and bleeding on probing were selected. This randomized single-blind study was carried out in parallel design. The control group received SRP alone, while the test group received SRP plus CHX chip. The clinical parameters, Plaque Index (PlI), Papillary Bleeding Score (PBS), Bleeding on Probing (BOP), Gingival Recession (GR), Probing Depth (PD) and Relative Attachment Level (RAL), and the microbiological parameter BANA test were recorded at baseline and after 3, 6 and 9 months.

RESULTS

Both groups presented significant improvements in all parameters analyzed over the study period. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups for any parameter analyzed after 9 months, except for BOP, which was significantly reduced in the control group. The mean reductions on PD and RAL were 2.4 mm and 1.0 mm for the control group and 2.2 mm and 0.6 mm for the test group, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The CHX chip did not provide any clinical or microbiological benefit beyond that achieved with conventional scaling and root planning, after a 9-month period.